1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (138 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 230 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
